Punjab’s Green Sticker Policy 2025: A Bold Step Toward Cleaner Air
Air pollution has long been one of Punjab’s toughest challenges, especially during the smog-filled winter months. Every year, cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala struggle with thick layers of smog that reduce visibility, disrupt daily life, and harm public health. In a determined effort to tackle this growing problem, the Punjab government has launched the Green Sticker Policy 2025 — a major initiative designed to control vehicle emissions and make the province’s air cleaner and healthier.
What Is the Green Sticker Policy 2025?
The Green Sticker Policy 2025 is a new rule introduced by the Punjab Environment Department to ensure that all vehicles on the road meet approved emission standards. Under this policy, every car, motorcycle, and commercial vehicle must pass an official emission test. Those that meet the environmental safety standards will receive a green sticker, which must be displayed on the vehicle as proof of compliance.
Starting September 1, 2025, only vehicles with a valid green sticker are allowed to operate in Punjab. Authorities have begun a province-wide crackdown on non-compliant vehicles to make sure the rule is strictly followed.
Why the Policy Matters
Smog in Punjab has reached dangerous levels in recent years. According to environmental experts, a large portion of this pollution comes from unmaintained or old vehicles that emit excessive smoke and toxic gases. The Green Sticker Policy aims to reduce these emissions and promote cleaner transportation habits among citizens.
This isn’t just a government directive — it’s a public health initiative. Cleaner air means fewer respiratory diseases, healthier children and elders, and better visibility on the roads during the winter season. The policy also aligns Punjab with global environmental standards and reflects a commitment to sustainability.
How to Get a Green Sticker
Obtaining a green sticker is a simple and straightforward process:
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Visit the nearest Environment Department inspection center.
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Have your vehicle undergo an emission test, which checks the engine, silencer, and exhaust system.
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If your vehicle meets the set emission standards, you’ll be issued a green sticker on the spot.
The Environment Department is also working to open more inspection centers across Punjab to make the process convenient for all vehicle owners. The official fee for the sticker will be announced soon.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply
The government has made it clear that vehicles without a green sticker will face strict penalties. During the first phase of enforcement, owners may receive warning slips or e-challans for driving non-compliant vehicles. However, repeat offenders will face heavy fines or even legal action.
No exceptions are being made for older or rural vehicles — every motorist is expected to comply. The crackdown will continue across cities and districts to ensure full enforcement.
Why Lahore Needs It the Most
Lahore has often ranked among the world’s most polluted cities, with air quality indexes regularly crossing dangerous levels during November and December. Schools, offices, and markets have had to close multiple times in recent years due to thick smog. The Green Sticker Policy 2025 targets this issue directly by allowing only low-emission vehicles to operate in the city.
Officials hope that this will lead to a noticeable drop in smog levels and help the city breathe easier.
Long-Term Impact and Future Plans
While some drivers may see this policy as an inconvenience, the long-term benefits are undeniable. Cleaner air improves public health, encourages regular vehicle maintenance, and builds awareness about environmental responsibility.
The Punjab government also plans to digitize the program by linking green stickers with vehicle registration databases. This will make verification easier for authorities and ensure transparent monitoring through automated systems and traffic cameras.
Final Thoughts
The Green Sticker Policy 2025 marks a major turning point in Punjab’s environmental journey. By holding vehicle owners accountable for emissions, the government is sending a powerful message: cleaner air is everyone’s responsibility.
If you own a vehicle in Punjab, now is the time to take action. Get your emission test done, obtain your green sticker, and become part of the movement for a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future for all.
